Essential 2000s post-rock

The best Post-Rock albums of the 2000s.

Where to start with 2000–2009 post-rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2000s — post-rock

Top picks from 2000–2009, ranked by where we would start.

At War with Walls & Mazes

Son Lux

At War with Walls & Mazes

A swirling blend of electronic textures and orchestral elements creates an immersive soundscape, both haunting and beautiful.

Start here

Lights

Lights

Lights

A kaleidoscopic blend of synth-pop melodies and heartfelt lyrics wrapped in an ethereal, electronic soundscape.

Start here

The Listening

Lights

The Listening

A vibrant blend of synth-pop and indie rock, infused with emotional lyrics and catchy hooks that define a new wave of pop.

Start here

The Fall of Math

65daysofstatic

The Fall of Math

This album captures the essence of their style and highlights their ability to meld genres seamlessly. It features a variety of tracks that demonstrate both their meticulous composition and improvisational spirit.

Start here

The Destruction of Small Ideas

65daysofstatic

The Destruction of Small Ideas

A dynamic blend of intricate rhythms and soaring melodies creates an immersive landscape of sound that challenges genre boundaries.

Start here

( )

Sigur Rós

( )

Ethereal soundscapes blend haunting vocals and expansive instrumentation, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that oscillates between tranquility and turbulence.

Start here

Takk...

Sigur Rós

Takk...

Ethereal soundscapes intertwine with sweeping orchestral elements, creating an expansive emotional journey through otherworldly realms.

Start here

Forever Burned

Swans

Forever Burned

An expansive blend of haunting melodies and industrial textures, echoing themes of love, loss, and existential dread.

Start here

Happy Songs for Happy People

Mogwai

Happy Songs for Happy People

This specific album showcases the evolution of Mogwai's sound, balancing lush melodies with intense climaxes. It invites listeners to explore the full range of their instrumental prowess without overwhelming them.

Start here

Batcat

Mogwai

Batcat

A dynamic blend of driving guitar riffs and atmospheric soundscapes that encapsulate the essence of post-rock.

Start here

Antidotes

Foals

Antidotes

A vibrant collision of dance-punk rhythms and intricate guitar work that invites frenetic energy and introspective moments.

Start here

Gold Gold Gold

Foals

Gold Gold Gold

A vibrant blend of art rock and dance-punk, merging intricate guitar lines with pulsating electronic rhythms.

Start here

Open Season

Sea Power

Open Season

A rich tapestry of atmospheric guitars and introspective lyrics, weaving post-punk energy with melodic indie sensibilities.

Start here

The Spirit of St. Louis

Sea Power

The Spirit of St. Louis

A fusion of atmospheric textures and melodic hooks, blending indie rock with elements of post-punk revival.

Start here

Hymn to the Immortal Wind

Mono

Hymn to the Immortal Wind

This album exemplifies Mono's ability to blend serene moments with explosive energy, providing a comprehensive introduction to their sound. The orchestral arrangements elevate the listening experience, drawing you into their world.

Start here

Walking Cloud and Deep Red Sky, Flag Fluttered and the Sun Shined

Mono

Walking Cloud and Deep Red Sky, Flag Fluttered and the Sun Shined

Dreamy soundscapes blend haunting melodies and dynamic crescendos, evoking a profound sense of introspection and expansive beauty.

Start here

For Long Tomorrow

toe

For Long Tomorrow

Intricate guitar work intertwines with ambient soundscapes, crafting a reflective journey through post-rock and math rock landscapes.

Start here

The Book About My Idle Plot on a Vague Anxiety

toe

The Book About My Idle Plot on a Vague Anxiety

'The Book About My Idle Plot on a Vague Anxiety' showcases toe's intricate rhythms alongside beautifully unfolding melodies. The album illustrates their ability to blend complexity with accessibility, making it a introduction to their sound.

Start here

Grace/Wastelands

Pete Doherty

Grace/Wastelands

'Grace/Wastelands' captures the essence of Doherty’s songwriting—its gritty honesty and emotional weight make it a fitting start for anyone new to his music. It presents a blend of urgency and introspection that defines his style.

Start here

...Until We Felt Red

Kaki King

...Until We Felt Red

A textured blend of intricate guitar work and ambient soundscapes that evoke a sense of deep introspection.

Start here

Legs to Make Us Longer

Kaki King

Legs to Make Us Longer

Intricate guitar work dances with ambient textures, creating a tapestry of sound that is both intimate and expansive.

Start here

God Is an Astronaut

God Is an Astronaut

God Is an Astronaut

Ethereal soundscapes intertwine with powerful crescendos, creating a vast auditory journey that evokes emotional landscapes.

Start here

The End of the Beginning

God Is an Astronaut

The End of the Beginning

Ethereal soundscapes intertwine with soaring guitar melodies, creating a cosmic journey through vast emotional landscapes.

Start here

The Brave and the Bold

Tortoise

The Brave and the Bold

A vibrant blend of eclectic influences, where art rock meets post-rock in a tapestry of rhythmically intricate compositions.

Start here